Stars should honor Whitney Houston by supporting Newark charities

As Newarkers, we wanted Whitney Houston’s life to be celebrated in God’s house with the class and dignity she deserved. And it certainly was: What a blessed and glorious celebration of our hometown icon.

Oprah Winfrey, who attended the funeral, posted a video online later saying we could have come together to celebrate Whitney’s life while she was alive. To Oprah and all the stars and dream makers who attended, I ask you to come together now to keep the legacy of Whitney alive by picking a Newark charity or starting one in this wonderful city, which gave birth to the legend with the golden voice. Alternatively, you could support the school in East Orange named in her honor, or the Whitney Houston Special Care Pediatric wing at University Hospital. This will keep Houston’s memory alive and support many young dreamers who do not have means. I will practice what I preach and be making a donation in her honor.